How Far in Advance Should You Book Movers?

Booking movers at the right time can make the difference between a smooth, organized relocation and a stressful, last-minute mess. Whether you’re planning a local move across town or a long-distance relocation to another state, timing is everything. Movers get busy fast—especially during peak moving season—and waiting too long often means limited options, higher prices, and less flexibility.

So, how far in advance should you book movers?

The answer depends on your move type, the season, and your specific needs. This guide breaks everything down so you can plan efficiently and secure the best movers at the best price.

Why Booking Movers Early Matters?

Before we dive into timelines, here’s why booking early is essential:

1. Better Pricing

Moving companies offer the most competitive prices when their schedules have more availability. Last-minute bookings often cost 20–40% more.

2. More Choices

Early booking allows you to compare quotes, check reviews, and choose reputable, licensed movers instead of only what’s left.

3. Guaranteed Availability

During peak seasons, good movers get fully booked fast. Booking early ensures you get your preferred date and time slot.

4. Lower Stress

With movers secured early, you can focus on packing, planning, and handling other moving-day tasks without panic.

How Far in Advance Should You Book Movers? (Local & Long-Distance)

1. Local Moves (Within the Same City)

Recommended Booking Time:

2–4 weeks in advance

Local movers are slightly more flexible, but waiting until the last minute—especially during peak weekends—can still cause issues. If you need extra services such as packing, storage, or specialty moving (piano, hot tub, etc.), book even earlier.

Book 4–6 weeks ahead if:

• You live in a busy city (NYC, LA, SF, Miami, Chicago)
• You’re moving at the end or beginning of a month
• It’s summer

2. Long-Distance Moves (Cross-Country or Interstate)

Recommended Booking Time:

8–12 weeks in advance

Long-distance movers require more planning, logistics, and coordination. They also have limited availability due to long hauls and multi-stop scheduling.

Book 12 weeks ahead if:

• You’re moving out of state during summer
• You need full-service packing
• You’re shipping a vehicle
• You have large or delicate items

3. International Moves

Recommended Booking Time:

12–16 weeks in advance

International relocations require customs paperwork, shipping arrangements, container booking, possible ocean or air freight, and strict timelines.

Booking early protects you from:

• Freight delays
• High shipping costs
• Unavailable container slots
• Customs processing issues

4. Peak Season Moves

Peak season runs from May to September.

Recommended Booking Time:

✔ 8–12 weeks for local moves

✔ 12–16 weeks for long-distance moves

Peak season is the busiest time of the year. Families move before school starts, college students move in/out, and weather is ideal.

5. Off-Season Moves

Off-season runs from October to April.

Recommended Booking Time:

✔ 2–4 weeks for local moves

✔ 6–8 weeks for long-distance moves

You’ll have more flexibility, more available movers, and better pricing.

6. Last-Minute Moves

Sometimes life happens—job changes, landlord notices, emergencies, or lease issues.

How soon can you book movers last minute?

Many moving companies accept bookings within 72 hours if availability exists.

But expect:

• Higher prices
• Fewer available time slots
• Limited selection of movers

Pro tip: Use a platform like VanLinesMove to check last-minute availability instantly and compare prices.

Timeline Breakdown: When to Book Movers Based on Move Type

Factors That Affect How Early You Should Book Movers

1. Time of the Month

The busiest days to move are:

• Last week of the month
• First 5 days of the month

Why?

Leases end, new leases start, and movers fill their schedules fast.

2. Size of Your Move

The more items you have, the more planning movers need.

Book early if you’re moving:

• 3–5+ bedroom home
• Large furniture
• Heavy specialty items (piano, hot tub, pool table)
• Large office or commercial spaces

3. Moving Distance

Longer distances require:

• Permits
• Routing
• Multi-stop coordination
• Overnight logistics

Hence, the need for earlier booking.

4. Availability of Elevators

High-rise buildings often require:

• Elevator reservation
• Parking permits
• Loading dock clearance

Early booking helps you coordinate with building management.

5. Special Services

If you need:

• Packing / unpacking
• Storage
• Crating
• Vehicle shipping
• Specialty moving

Book extra early so movers can prepare properly.

Signs You’re Booking Movers Too Late

You know you're late when:

✔ Movers are unavailable for your preferred date

✔ Prices are significantly higher than usual

✔ Only low-rated companies have slots

✔ You cannot find movers who offer the services you need

✔ You must settle for inconvenient time slots

Avoid the stress—book early.

How to Secure Your Booking Quickly

Here’s how to lock in movers efficiently:

1. Start with an Inventory List

Movers need this for accurate pricing.

2. Compare at Least 3 Moving Quotes

Never choose the first one you get.

3. Confirm Licensing and Insurance

Especially important for interstate movers.

4. Ask About Additional Fees

Avoid surprise costs like:

• Long carries
• Stairs
• Shuttle truck
• Packing material charges

5. Get Everything in Writing

Your booking is confirmed only when you receive:

• Quote
• Contract
• Move date and time
• Service list

How VanLinesMove Helps You Book Movers at the Right Time?

VanLinesMove makes the entire booking process simple, transparent, and affordable.

✔ Compare Multiple Quotes Instantly

Get estimates from licensed and vetted movers.

✔ Transparent Pricing

No hidden fees, no last-minute surprises.

✔ Early Booking Discounts

Save more when you book 4–8 weeks ahead.

✔ Last-Minute Move Assistance

We help you find movers with real-time availability.

✔ Long-Distance & Local Movers Nationwide

Fast booking for any type of move.

✔ 24/7 Support

We assist throughout your moving journey.

When you’re unsure how early to book—VanLinesMove gives you instant clarity.

Conclusion

So, how far in advance should you book movers?

The simple answer: As early as possible—but the ideal timeline depends on your move type and season.

• Local moves → 2–4 weeks
• Long-distance moves → 8–12 weeks
• International moves → 12–16 weeks
• Peak season → Book even earlier

Planning ahead saves money, reduces stress, and ensures you get reputable, reliable movers. And if you're unsure where to start, VanLinesMove helps you compare trusted movers, check real-time availability, and book smartly.

FAQs

1. Is 2 weeks enough time to book movers?

Yes for small local moves (studio or 1-bedroom), but not recommended during peak season.

2. How early should I book long-distance movers?

Book 8–12 weeks in advance, especially from May to September.

3. Can I book movers last minute?

Yes, many movers offer last-minute services, but expect higher prices and limited availability.

4. What is the busiest month for moving?

June, July, and August are the busiest and most expensive months.

5. What day is cheapest to hire movers?

Tuesday–Thursday are usually the cheapest weekdays.